Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. While it is fantastic for frequent international travelers, there is no minimum number of trips necessary to qualify for the program.
Even if you only travel outside of the country once a year, or once every couple of years, it is well worth the investment of time and money to enroll in the program! Membership in the program is valid for 5 years with no additional fees other than the initial application fee.
Participants in the Global Entry program may enter the United States by using automated kiosks located at select airports. This saves a great deal of time (and sometimes frustration) waiting in the long to very long customs lines upon reentering the US from your international trip. The kiosk issues the traveler a transaction receipt and directs the traveler to baggage claim and the exit.
Besides the obvious benefit of expedited arrival into the US after your travel, there are also some nice benefits associated with Global Entry on your travel departure as well. Global Entry participants are automatically eligible for TSA PreCheck benefits as well.
TSA PreCheck allows you to go through an expedited TSA / Security check when you arrive at the airport. This can be a huge time saver during peak travel times!
If you have a passport already, there are 4 steps to apply for this program. If you do not have a passport yet, there are 5 steps; the very first would be to obtain your passport. Here is a brief outline of the application process:
1. Apply online (there is a $100 non-refundable application fee)
2. Once your application has been processed, you will schedule an interview at one of the Global Entry Enrollment Centers
3. The Interview – this determines your eligibility. You will be interviewed by a CBP officer.
4. Provide proper identification at the interview – you must provide your passport and one other government issued form of identification such as your driver’s license. If you are a lawful permanent resident, you must present your permanent resident card.
Global Entry kiosks are available at many of the larger airports throughout the US. Please remember, it may not be as important that the program be available at your local departure airport, the need is for it to be available at the airport through which you re-enter the United States.
For example, using a local example, they do not have Global Entry kiosks at the airport in College Station, TX but they do have them in Houston at George Bush Intercontinental Airport. They currently do not have them in Austin, TX but they are in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Atlanta, and Chicago – which are the US Entry points for most flights originating out of Austin. Also, it is important that you can get to one of the enrollment centers for your interview.
If you are ready to save time and would like more information about this program, please visit the program website at www.globalentry.gov
I hope you found this time saving information helpful!
Safe Travels,